A Largs seafront funfair operator is delighted after his 'Dumbo' elephant ride was saved after council planners gave his extension the green light.

We reported last month how Quilly, who brought a popular family seafront ride to Largs, could potentially be ordered to remove it - after a single complaint triggered a planning probe.

Quilly Clark has been told he has to lodge a planning application for his flying elephant ride after a member of the public objected to its 'encroachment' on the promenade.

Largs Community Council had also opposed the extension by four votes to three, but a strong public show of support for the elephant ride offered hope for the businessman that his seaside attraction would receive permission to continue in its current format.

Quilly said: "I am delighted that common sense has prevailed. I was confident that the extension would receive permission.

"I got a phone call a couple of days ago from the planning department to let me know.

"It is good news for Largs, and families can come and enjoy the flying elephant ride which provides stunning views of the seafront and up and down the Clyde.

"It is something that not just the kids enjoy, but mums, dads and grandparents."

The funfair attraction took three days to be transported to Scotland by lorry from the Czech Republic, and opened last summer.

However, the attraction's ground plate supporting structure extended on to the prom by four feet six inches.

Quilly laughed: "All we need now is sunshine!"

Many letters of support for the funfair facility came from Largs, and around Scotland, and even internationally from Venezuela.

Ex-pat Peter McLean of Caracas sent the following message to the 'News': "This complaint was certainly registered by some dreary, short-sighted individual with no thought for the welfare of Largs in general. I am delighted that the elected powers that be have decided in favour of 'Dumbo'"

While another contributor Yanni said: "This ride brings visitors to Largs the encroachment on to the promenade is minimal, for one petty short minded person to object is beyond belief. I am delighted that the council has seen sense and approved the application."

'News' columnist Drew Cochrane described the Dumbo elephant ride as a 'godsend' to Largs. He said: "The flying elephants look wonderful - this is a godsend to Largs. You have old dears sitting eating their chips while listening to Dean Martin or Frank Sinatra, while children enjoy a fantastic funfair ride - it is a magnet for holidaymakers."